The 1987 BMW 325is, known for its iconic design, spirited performance, and timeless appeal, stands as one of the most beloved models in BMW’s illustrious history. From its introduction, the 325is captured the attention of driving enthusiasts and remains a popular choice for collectors and weekend racers alike. This classic vehicle symbolizes the essence of BMW’s motto, “The Ultimate Driving Machine,” and continues to evoke admiration from all corners of the automotive world.
The 325is of 1987, part of the E30 generation of the BMW 3 Series, solidified its reputation by combining elegant design, balanced handling, and reliability. As the years pass, the 325is only seems to become more desirable, offering both nostalgic value and driving excitement. This article delves into the essence of the 1987 BMW 325is, exploring its design, performance, features, and why it continues to stand the test of time.
The Legacy of the E30 3 Series
BMW’s 3 Series has long been the cornerstone of the brand, and the E30 generation, which spanned from 1982 to 1994, is often hailed as one of the most significant in the model’s lineage. When BMW first introduced the E30, it was designed to cater to a growing demographic of younger, more performance-focused drivers. The 325is, a coupe variant, became a standout model that defined the sporty, driver-oriented experience BMW sought to perfect.
The E30’s success is due to more than just its appealing aesthetics. BMW engineered the car with precision, offering drivers an engaging experience whether on city streets or winding back roads. The 325is, with its 2.5-liter inline-six engine, was the pinnacle of performance in the range before the introduction of the legendary M3.
Exterior Styling: A Design That Endures
The 1987 BMW 325is boasts a distinctive and timeless design, which has aged gracefully over the decades. Its boxy shape is a defining characteristic of the era, representing a perfect blend of form and function. The car’s proportions are both sporty and elegant, with a wide stance and a low-slung body that hints at its performance capabilities.
At the front, the kidney grille—an iconic BMW feature—is framed by dual round headlights, which have become a hallmark of the brand. The simple yet aggressive front fascia sets the tone for the car’s character, and the sloping hood flows seamlessly into the sharp lines of the body. The 325is also features a rear spoiler, enhancing its sporty look while improving aerodynamics.
The 1987 model is known for its understated design elements, such as the blacked-out window trim, body-colored bumpers, and alloy wheels, which combine to give the car a sophisticated yet purposeful appearance. The 325is doesn’t rely on flashy gimmicks to stand out; its beauty lies in its simplicity and the precision of its design.
Engine and Performance: A Pure Driving Experience
Under the hood of the 1987 BMW 325is resides the heart of the car—a 2.5-liter inline-six engine, known as the M20B25. This engine produces 168 horsepower and 164 lb-ft of torque, which may not seem impressive by today’s standards, but during its era, it was more than sufficient to deliver an exhilarating driving experience.
The 325is’s engine is naturally aspirated, providing a linear power delivery that gives drivers a direct connection to the road. The M20B25 engine is renowned for its smoothness, reliability, and the iconic sound of the inline-six, which is music to the ears of any driving enthusiast. Paired with a five-speed manual transmission, the 325is offers a level of engagement that is increasingly rare in modern cars.
Performance-wise, the 325is was able to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 7.4 seconds, making it one of the quicker cars in its class at the time. But raw speed was never the sole focus of this BMW. The true magic of the 325is lies in its handling and balance, a characteristic that BMW engineers carefully honed.
The car’s rear-wheel-drive layout, coupled with a near 50/50 weight distribution, ensures that the 325is is agile and responsive. Whether taking tight corners or cruising on the highway, the car delivers a sense of precision and control that is difficult to match. Drivers often praise the car’s feedback through the steering wheel and chassis, making it an ideal companion for spirited driving on twisty roads.
Suspension and Handling: A Driver’s Delight
The 1987 BMW 325is features an advanced suspension system that was designed to provide both comfort and performance. Up front, the car employs MacPherson struts, while the rear features a semi-trailing arm setup. This combination allows the 325is to deliver a smooth ride without sacrificing its handling prowess.
BMW tuned the suspension to strike a perfect balance between sportiness and everyday usability. The 325is’s suspension setup ensures that the car remains composed during aggressive driving, providing minimal body roll and excellent road grip. At the same time, it offers a comfortable ride on daily commutes, absorbing bumps and imperfections with ease.
Part of what makes the 325is such a joy to drive is the communication it offers to the driver. The car’s steering is precise and offers ample feedback, allowing drivers to feel connected to the road. This, coupled with the 325is’s lightweight chassis, makes it an incredibly agile car that responds immediately to driver inputs. Whether on a mountain road or a racetrack, the 325is feels planted and confident, providing drivers with the sense that they are in complete control.
Interior: Classic Luxury and Driver-Centric Design
Stepping inside the 1987 BMW 325is, one is immediately struck by the simplicity and functionality of the interior. BMW’s approach to interior design during this era was all about putting the driver first, and the 325is exemplifies this philosophy. Every control is logically placed within easy reach, and the minimalist layout ensures that nothing distracts from the driving experience.
The dashboard is clean and uncluttered, featuring easy-to-read analog gauges that provide all the necessary information without overwhelming the driver. The materials used in the cabin are of high quality, with soft-touch surfaces and leatherette upholstery providing a premium feel. The seats, designed to offer both comfort and support, are ideal for long drives or spirited cornering sessions.
One of the highlights of the 325is’s interior is the sport seats, which come standard in this model. These seats offer excellent bolstering, keeping the driver and passenger secure during aggressive driving. The seating position is low and sporty, giving the driver a commanding view of the road while maintaining a sense of connection with the car.
Though the interior is not as feature-rich as modern cars, the 325is includes essentials like air conditioning, a sunroof, and an AM/FM stereo. BMW’s focus was clearly on creating a driver-oriented environment, and the 325is delivers this in spades.
Collectibility: Why the 1987 BMW 325is Remains a Classic
The 1987 BMW 325is has gained a cult following among car enthusiasts and collectors for several reasons. Its status as part of the legendary E30 generation, combined with its performance capabilities and timeless design, has made it one of the most sought-after classic BMWs.
One of the key factors contributing to the 325is’s collectibility is its rarity. While the E30 3 Series was produced in large numbers, the 325is was a more exclusive model, especially in coupe form. As a result, well-preserved examples of the 325is are highly desirable and command a premium in the classic car market.
Another reason the 325is remains popular is its potential for modification. Many enthusiasts appreciate the car’s versatility and the ease with which it can be upgraded. Whether it’s tuning the engine, enhancing the suspension, or adding modern technology, the 325is provides a solid foundation for customization.
Despite the popularity of the 325is, finding a pristine example can be a challenge. Many of these cars have been driven hard or modified extensively over the years, making original, unmolested examples increasingly rare. For collectors, the 325is represents not only a piece of BMW history but also a rewarding investment that is likely to appreciate in value.
Driving the 325is Today: A Journey Back in Time
Taking a 1987 BMW 325is out on the road today is a unique experience that transports drivers back to an era when cars were simpler, lighter, and more engaging. The absence of modern driving aids like traction control and stability management means that drivers must rely on their skills and instincts to extract the best from the car.
The tactile nature of the 325is makes it a joy to drive, especially on curvy roads where its balance and precision shine. Every shift, every turn, and every press of the throttle provides immediate feedback, making the 325is feel alive in the hands of the driver. There’s a mechanical purity to the car that is often missing from modern vehicles, which can feel overly insulated or numb by comparison.
Despite its age, the 325is still feels relevant on today’s roads. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver in traffic, and its responsive steering and suspension allow it to keep up with modern cars. The car’s timeless design also ensures that it turns heads wherever it goes, with many onlookers appreciating the classic BMW aesthetic.
Ownership Experience: Maintaining a 1987 BMW 325is
Owning a 1987 BMW 325is comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. While the car is known for its durability and build quality, it is still a vehicle that is over three decades old, meaning that regular maintenance and occasional repairs are inevitable.
The good news for owners is that parts for the 325is are relatively easy to find, and there is a thriving community of enthusiasts who can offer advice and support. Many aftermarket companies produce high-quality replacement parts for the 325is, making it easier to keep these cars on the road.
Owners should be prepared for some of the typical issues that can arise with an older car, such as worn suspension components, aging rubber seals, and electrical gremlins. However, these issues are generally minor and can be addressed with proper care and maintenance.
The rewards of owning a 325is far outweigh the challenges. For many enthusiasts, the joy of driving a classic BMW like the 325is is worth the effort, and the car’s timeless appeal ensures that it remains a beloved part of any collection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What engine powers the 1987 BMW 325is?
The 1987 BMW 325is is equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-six engine (M20B25) that produces 168 horsepower and 164 lb-ft of torque.
2. How fast is the 1987 BMW 325is?
The 325is can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 7.4 seconds, making it one of the quicker cars in its class during its time.
3. What makes the 1987 BMW 325is collectible?
The 325is is part of the iconic E30 generation of the 3 Series and is known for its balanced performance, timeless design, and rarity, particularly in coupe form.
4. Is it difficult to find parts for the 1987 BMW 325is?
Parts for the 325is are relatively easy to find, thanks to a large aftermarket and enthusiast community. Many original and aftermarket parts are available to keep these cars on the road.
5. What is the driving experience like in the 1987 BMW 325is?
Driving the 325is offers a pure, engaging experience with precise handling, responsive steering, and a direct connection to the road. Its rear-wheel-drive layout and 50/50 weight distribution contribute to its agility and driving enjoyment.
6. How much does a 1987 BMW 325is cost today?
Prices for the 325is vary depending on condition, mileage, and originality. Well-preserved examples can command a premium in the classic car market, with prices ranging from $15,000 to $30,000 or more for pristine models.
7. Can the 1987 BMW 325is be used as a daily driver?
The 325is is a versatile car that can be used as a daily driver, but its age means that regular maintenance and care are necessary. Some owners choose to preserve their 325is for weekend drives or car shows.
The 1987 BMW 325is remains a beloved icon of BMW’s history, offering a driving experience that is both timeless and exhilarating. Its combination of performance, design, and driving engagement continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world. For those seeking a classic car that makes up for lost time, the 325is is a true gem that delivers on all fronts.
